Psychology Nurse Career Guide

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Overview

A Psychology RN, or Psychiatric Nurse, is a specialized healthcare professional who focuses on the mental health and well-being of patients. These highly skilled nurses play a vital role in assessing, diagnosing and treating individuals with psychiatric and mental health disorders. Psychology RNs work in a variety of healthcare settings, including psychiatric hospitals, mental health clinics

Education

Becoming a Psychology RN requires a strong educational foundation in nursing and mental health. Aspiring nurses typically begin by completing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, which takes about 4 years to complete. After earning their nursing degree, they must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a licensed registered nurse.

To specialize in psychiatric nursing,

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Related certifications

Qualifying for a position as a Psychology RN involves meeting specific qualifications and gaining relevant experience. Some employers may require or prefer nurses to hold certification in psychiatric-mental health nursing. The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse - Board Certified (PMH-BC) certification provides credentials for registered nurses who work in a mental health setting. This certification is offered by the

State licenses process and requirements

All 50 states require state licensure to become a professional nurse. Review the step-by-step process to obtain or renew your RN license in each one.
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Skills

Psychology RNs require a diverse skill set to excel in this specialty. They need in-depth knowledge of psychiatric disorders, mental health assessment techniques and evidence-based treatment modalities. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are vital for building trust and rapport with patients, conducting assessments and providing therapeutic interventions.

Empathy, patience and active listening are essential soft skills, as Psychology RNs often work

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Responsibilities

The responsibilities of a Psychology RN revolve around the assessment, care and treatment of individuals with mental health disorders. They conduct comprehensive psychiatric assessments to evaluate patients' mental and emotional states, identify psychiatric diagnoses and develop individualized treatment plans. This may include therapy, medication management and crisis intervention.

Psychology RNs provide ongoing therapeutic support to patients, facilitating group and individual therapy

Salary Insights

Compare your pay with the most up-to-date job market data using our comprehensive salary calculator.
Psychology Nurse
$1,921-2,511/week

The average salary for a Psychology Nurse is $2,204.52 per week.

Last updated on November 4, 2024. Based on active jobs on Vivian.com.

Pros & Cons

A career as a staff or travel Psychology RN offers several benefits. For those passionate about mental health care and dedicated to helping individuals with psychiatric disorders, a career as a Psychology RN can be both personally and professionally fulfilling. It allows nurses to make a meaningful impact on individuals struggling with mental health issues, helping them lead

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Psychology Nurse Jobs


View job details for Travel Nurse RN - Psychology
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - Psychology

  • Rochester, NY
  • Solomon Page
  • 4x12 hrs

$3,047/week

View job details for Travel Nurse RN - Psychology
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - Psychology

  • Wichita, KS
  • LeaderStat
  • 4x12 hrs

$2,846/week

Posted 6 days ago
View job details for Travel Nurse RN - Psychology
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - Psychology

  • Holyoke, MA
  • LeaderStat
  • 5x8 hrs

$2,511/week

Posted Today
 Verified
View job details for Travel Nurse RN - Psychology
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - Psychology

  • Holyoke, MA
  • LeaderStat
  • 5x8 hrs

$2,511/week

Posted 13 days ago
 Verified

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